Teriyaki Glazed Tofu

Name: Teriyaki Glazed Tofu
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

I absolutely love making Teriyaki Glazed Tofu at home because it’s a simple yet flavorful dish that satisfies my cravings. The combination of savory teriyaki sauce with crispy tofu creates a delicious harmony of textures and tastes. I often prepare this meal for weeknight dinners since it comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether served over rice or alongside steamed vegetables, this dish is always a hit. I enjoy experimenting by adding different vegetables or garnishes to make it my own!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-24T16:38:18.821Z

Making Teriyaki Glazed Tofu has been one of my favorite culinary adventures. The first time I tried it, I was amazed at how quickly the tofu absorbed the rich flavors of the sauce. I learned that pressing the tofu before cooking helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. It’s a game-changer!

I generally make this dish when I want something quick but tasty. The secret is to let the tofu marinate in the sauce for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This enhances the flavor significantly and really brings out the teriyaki essence. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that clings to every bite
Crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful center
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding Tofu

Tofu is a versatile ingredient that plays a crucial role in this Teriyaki Glazed Tofu recipe. When selecting tofu, opt for firm or extra-firm varieties to achieve the best texture. Soft tofu can fall apart during cooking and won't hold its shape as well, leading to a less satisfying bite. Pressing the tofu is essential; it removes excess moisture, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the teriyaki sauce better and achieve that wonderfully crispy exterior during cooking.

The cubing of tofu is another important step. Uniformly sized cubes ensure even cooking and browning. Aim for approximately 1-inch pieces; this size strikes the perfect balance, allowing the tofu edges to crisp up nicely while still maintaining that soft interior. If you're short on time, pre-pressed and cubed tofu options are available in stores, which can save you a step in preparation.

Perfecting the Sauce

Making the teriyaki sauce from scratch enhances the overall flavor of the dish significantly. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a sweet and savory profile that pairs beautifully with the tofu. If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking—this will give the sauce a glossy finish and help it cling to the tofu more effectively.

Feel free to experiment with the ratios of the ingredients. For instance, if you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can be added. Or, if you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, tamari can be used in place of soy sauce without sacrificing flavor. Don't skip on tasting the sauce before adding it to the pan; small adjustments can make a big difference in achieving your preferred flavor balance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this Teriyaki Glazed Tofu is delicious over rice, consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Serve it alongside steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious meal. Adding sesame seeds and green onions as garnish not only enhances visual appeal but also provides additional texture and flavor, making each bite exciting.

For variations, try adding different vegetables to the pot as the sauce simmers, like mushrooms or zucchini, which absorb the teriyaki flavors well. If you're looking for a heartier option, serve the tofu in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and can easily be reheated in a skillet over medium heat for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for this delightful dish:

Ingredients

14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready to go before you start cooking to enjoy a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Teriyaki Glazed Tofu:

Prepare the Tofu

Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Cut it into cubes and set aside.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

Coat the Tofu

In another bowl, toss the cubed tofu with cornstarch until evenly coated.

Cook the Tofu

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Add the Sauce

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the crispy tofu and let it simmer for a few minutes until everything is well-coated.

Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving it over rice or with your favorite vegetables.

And there you have it—your homemade Teriyaki Glazed Tofu!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding steamed broccoli or bell peppers in the final minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.

Key Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect crispy tofu takes careful attention during the cooking process. Make sure the oil in the pan is hot enough before adding the tofu; a good way to test is by flicking a drop of water into the pan—if it sizzles, it's ready. Cook the tofu in batches if your pan is crowded, as crowding can lower the temperature and result in soggy pieces instead of crispy ones. Aim for a golden-brown color on each side, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

If you find your tofu sticking to the pan, it might be a sign that the pan isn’t hot enough or that too much moisture remains on the tofu. Another useful tip is to use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet, which can help achieve a better sear. Once the tofu is golden, carefully flip it using a spatula to prevent breaking the cubes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make the Teriyaki Glazed Tofu ahead of time, prepare the tofu and sauce separately. The cooked tofu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in a pan and add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Heat covered over low heat until heated through, then stir in the teriyaki sauce to warm everything together shortly before serving.

You can also freeze the cooked teriyaki tofu. Spread it out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. To reheat, simply place it in a pan over medium heat, adding additional sauce if needed. The flavor may slightly change upon freezing, but it remains a scrumptious meal option ready to be enjoyed anytime!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of tofu?

Yes, you can use soft or silken tofu, but the texture will be different. Firm tofu holds up best for frying.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Teriyaki Glazed Tofu is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegans.

→ Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version.